Xavier University of Louisiana pitcher Blair Frederick struck out 17 opposing batters in a near perfect pitching performance against Bluefield State in its first game of the inaugural Black College World Series.
Frederick ran into trouble at the start of the game. Bluefield State jumped on him early for a 2-0 lead and could have caused more damage, but he managed to settle down and throw a six-inning gem-like performance.
At one point he struck out eight of nine batters he faced.
In the game, Frederick allowed two hits, two runs, all earned and walked four Big Blue batters. He also hit three batters and threw two wild pitches. His strikeouts were able retire Bluefield State to get out of jams.
Frederick’s 17 strikeout performance was one less than the NAIA individual high this season of 18 done by three other NAIA pitchers according to Dakstats. He was removed from the game at the end of the sixth-inning after his pitch-count reached 124.
On that front, let’s give the Bluefield State credit. They went out and won a game where the opponent sent one of the most dominant pitchers in the game. Tanner Brandon was tough as nails in 7.0 innings allowed four hits one run and recorded seven strikeouts.
In the seventh inning, Tanner pitched out of an intensive bases loaded jam with two outs. He appeared to look rattled on the mound before inducing a route fly ball for the third out.
Both teams left runners stranded. Bluefield State had 13 left on base compared to Xavier’s 9.